Partial Wall Removal and RSJ Installation in St Albans
This project in St Albans is a great example of how even a partial wall removal can dramatically improve the usability of a home when it’s done correctly and safely.
Our clients were in the early stages of a large family room renovation but were being held back by a masonry column and a poorly positioned soil pipe that sat right in the middle of the space. The layout simply didn’t work for their plans, and the structure needed careful reworking before any cosmetic renovation could move forward.
The Challenge
The existing layout included a masonry column that was providing structural support, along with a soil pipe running directly through the area that was intended to become open-plan. Removing either element without proper planning would have compromised the structure of the house.
In addition, the clients wanted a clean, modern finish once complete, with part of the new steel beam left exposed as a design feature. This meant the installation had to be both structurally precise and visually considered.
Our Approach
Before any removal work took place, the structure was assessed and a solution designed that allowed the load to be safely transferred while opening up the space.
The work involved:
Partial removal of the existing wall and masonry column
Installation of a structural RSJ to support the load above
Careful relocation of the soil pipe so it no longer interrupted the room layout
Positioning the steel so half of the head beam could remain exposed as a feature
As with many projects of this nature, access and sequencing were key. Temporary support was installed while the masonry was removed, and the steel beam was carefully fitted to ensure the load was fully supported before any further work continued.
The Result
With the masonry column removed and the soil pipe rerouted, the space is now completely open and ready for the next phase of the renovation. The new RSJ provides the required structural support, while also allowing the clients to incorporate an exposed steel detail into the final design.
Most importantly, the structural work is now complete, meaning the clients can confidently move forward with their family room renovation knowing the foundations of the space are sound.
Why This Stage Matters
Structural work like this often doesn’t look “finished” when we leave site — but it is the most critical part of the entire renovation. Getting the wall removal, steel installation, and service relocation right at this stage prevents problems later and gives builders and trades a solid base to work from.
This project is a good reminder that thoughtful structural changes don’t just improve safety — they unlock the potential of a space.
If you’re planning a renovation in St Albans or Hertfordshire and need help with wall removal, RSJ installation, or structural alterations, Wall Away Ltd can support your project from start to finish.